ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government has allocated a total of N219 billion to Nigeria’s postponed national population and housing census between 2021 and 2026, despite repeated delays in conducting the exercise.
The allocation highlights the significant financial resources committed to preparing for the long-awaited census, which is expected to provide updated demographic and housing data for national planning and development.
The census has been postponed several times due to a combination of logistical, administrative and other challenges. The continued delay has raised concerns over the accuracy and reliability of Nigeria’s population data, particularly as the country experiences rapid population growth and increasing urbanisation.
The latest allocation covers funding provided over several budget cycles, reflecting the Federal Government’s continued commitment to completing the exercise. The funds are expected to support preparatory activities, logistics, technology, personnel training and other requirements necessary for a nationwide census.
A credible population census is considered essential for effective planning, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, housing, employment, infrastructure and social services. Accurate demographic information also helps government determine how resources should be distributed across states and local communities.
Nigeria’s last national census was conducted in 2006, making the country’s population data more than two decades old. Since then, population estimates have continued to rise, while policymakers and development partners have repeatedly stressed the need for reliable and current figures.
The prolonged postponement has also generated debate over the financial implications of repeatedly preparing for an exercise that has yet to take place. Critics have questioned whether additional allocations should continue to be made without a clear timeline for the completion of the census.
However, supporters of the exercise argue that accurate population data remains critical to Nigeria’s development and that the resources committed to the census should be viewed as an investment in evidence-based planning.
The National Population Commission is expected to continue preparations for the exercise while working with relevant government institutions and stakeholders to address outstanding challenges.
The eventual census is expected to provide updated information on Nigeria’s population size, distribution and housing conditions, data that could influence future government policies, development programmes and resource allocation.
As preparations continue, attention remains focused on when the Federal Government will announce a firm and sustainable date for the long-delayed national population and housing census.
